The First Lady of Kogi State, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, has called on young people to be vigilant against the negative influences of social media and focus on making positive choices that will secure a prosperous future.
Hajia Ododo made the appeal in Okene during the 16 Days of Activism and Awareness Campaign on the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls, which took place at the Palace of the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland on Monday.
The First Lady expressed concern over the growing moral challenges faced by youth, particularly young women, on social media. She advised them to avoid engaging in activities that negatively reflect on womanhood, urging them instead to make choices that align with their values and dignity.
Addressing the alarming involvement of young people in vices such as internet fraud, Mrs. Ododo emphasized the importance of acquiring entrepreneurial skills, especially in fields like Information and Communication Technology (ICT), to build a sustainable and independent future. She urged youth to steer away from destructive behaviors and instead focus on self-reliance.
Hajia Sefinat also appealed to parents to take an active role in shaping their children’s futures, urging them to take advantage of the free education provided by the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo. She encouraged parents to ensure their children are enrolled in school to help them realize their full potential.
The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Alhaji Ahmed Muhammed Tijani Anaje, also spoke at the event, stressing the importance of peace, love, respect, and discipline within the family. He urged fathers to fulfill their responsibilities as family heads and called on traditional rulers in Ebiraland to avoid rewarding negative practices, instead promoting good examples in their communities.
Maryam Abedo, Director General of the Kogi State Pension Commission, also offered a goodwill message, urging women to speak out against any form of molestation before and after marriage. She stressed the importance of reporting such incidents to the appropriate authorities and advised parents to develop a closer relationship with their children so they can confide in them about any challenges they face.
Mrs. Abedo further urged parents to instill proper values in their sons, teaching them how to treat their spouses with respect. She encouraged couples to foster mutual respect, creating a stronger, healthier society that can raise godly children.
Media Office of the Kogi State First Lady
December 10, 2024